HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-17-2014 C4 2014-15 Human Relations Commission Grants-In-Aid FundingCity of San Luis Obispo, Council Agenda Report, Meeting Date, Item Number
FROM: Monica Irons, Director of Human Resources
Greg Zocher, Human Resources Manager
Prepared By: Kate Auslen, Human Resources Administrative Assistant
SUBJECT: 2014-15 HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION (HRC) GRANTS-IN-AID
(GIA) FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS
RECOMMENDATION
As recommended by the HRC, tentatively approve the 2014-15 GIA allocations in the amount of
$133,900 (Attachment 1) contingent on Council adoption of the 2013-15 Financial Plan
Supplement and 2014-15 Budget, and authorize the City Manager to execute agreements with
each grant recipient.
DISCUSSION
Background
The City of SLO Grants-in-Aid Program, overseen by the Human Relations Commission,
provides financial support to non-profit organizations promoting the economic and social well-
being of their clients. Grants are made to organizations based in the City of San Luis Obispo or
agencies based in neighboring communities serving a significant number of City residents. If
agencies submit applications for multiple programs, they are asked to rank them in priority order.
The HRC, the Housing Programs Manager and the Human Resources Manager conducted a
Public Needs Workshop in September 2013 to gather information on San Luis Obispo’s current
human and social service needs for the 2014-2015 GIA and Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) cycles. The HRC heard testimony from a variety of applicants.
In December 2013, the HRC formally launched its annual GIA process. Notices advertising the
availability of grant funds for local service organizations providing human and social services in
the City were placed on the City’s website. In addition, grant recipients from prior years were e-
mailed grant applications and information about the 2014-2015 GIA process. Completed GIA
applications were due to the City on February 4, 2014. The HRC received applications from 38
agencies requesting funding for 42 different programs. The grant requests totaled $245,055.
Review Process
Upon receiving the grant applications, the HRC convened the GIA subcommittee of
Commissioners Clayton, Tasseff, and Tilley. The subcommittee used the following non-ranked
GIA funding priorities approved by Council on October 1, 2013, when evaluating applications:
1. Homeless prevention including supportive services and transitional housing
2. Hunger and malnutrition prevention
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3. Supportive physical and mental health services
4. Services for seniors and/or people with disabilities
5. Supportive services for youth and their development; especially targeted to youth at risk
Total grant requests exceeded the 2014-15 GIA budget of $133,900 by over $110,000. While
this challenged the subcommittee members, they carefully used the Council’s GIA funding
priorities to guide their recommendations. After thoroughly reviewing all applications, the
subcommittee presented preliminary grant recommendations to the full Commission at the April
2, 2014 HRC meeting. As part of this discussion, the HRC agreed to make some changes to the
subcommittee’s recommendations (Attachment 2).
Staff invited all GIA applicants to a Public Hearing held May 7, 2014 (Attachment 3). Twenty-
one members from various non-profit organizations spoke in support of the GIA program. While
many thanked the HRC for its support, some expressed disappointment in either not being
recommended for a grant, or the recommendation being for an amount lower than requested.
After hearing public testimony, the HRC discussed and approved the subcommittee’s
recommendations as submitted.
Funding Recommendation Summary
The HRC’s 2014-15 GIA recommendations are as follows:
1. Provide for the disbursement of $133,900 as included in the 2013-15 Financial Plan.
2. Provide funding to 30 programs with grants ranging from $1,000 to $12,400.
3. Deny funding to 12 programs.
Funding Recommendation Discussion
In making recommendations, the HRC considered whether funds would be used to provide direct
services to clients, collaboration with other agencies, and the prioritization of multiple grants
from the same agency. Funding recommendations are outlined in detail in the GIA Summary
Recommendations (Attachment 1).
Funding Denials
With 42 applications requesting over $110,000 above the GIA budget of $133,900, the HRC was
required to make difficult decisions. Therefore, in addition to fully funding a few requests and
partially funding a number of requests, ultimately the HRC was obliged to recommend not funding
some requests. These 12 organizations’ requests and reasoning for denial are briefly outlined in
Attachment 1.
Prior to the May 7, 2014 HRC public hearing, the GIA applicants were informed of the HRC’s
tentative funding recommendations. At the public hearing, all applicants were given an
opportunity to provide public comment. Representatives for all programs denied funding had the
opportunity to address the HRC and ask them to reconsider their recommendations. Some
agencies expressed disappointment yet understood the challenge before the HRC: too few funds to
address the many needs. The HRC appreciated the input from all agencies represented at the May
7, 2014, public hearing.
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HRC Grants in Aid Page 3
Contracts
Upon Council adoption of the HRC’s GIA award recommendations and contingent upon Council
adoption of the 2014-15 budget, the City will enter into contracts with each organization. The
HRC and City staff will monitor the contracts throughout the year.
FISCAL IMPACT
The Human Relations program budget includes $133,900 for Grants in Aid funding. Upon
adoption of the 2014-15 budget, the HRC recommends allocating the full amount.
ALTERNATIVES
Do not approve allocating some or all of the funds. This alternative is not recommended, given
the need in the community and the careful evaluation and consideration by the HRC.
ATTACHMENTS
1. GIA Summary Recommendations
2. Minutes of the April 2, 2014 HRC Meeting
3. Minutes of the May 7, 2014 HRC Meeting
AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE COUNCIL OFFICE
Binders containing the complete 2014-2015 GIA Applications
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ATTACHMENT 1
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HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
2014 GRANTS-IN-AID SUMMARY RECOMMENDATIONS
ORGANIZATIONS THAT HAVE BEEN RECOMMENDED FOR FUNDING:
1. ALLIANCE FOR PHARMACEUTICAL ACCESS (APA): PRESCRIPTION ACCESS FOR
HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES
2013 Grant Award $ 2,700
2014 Grant Request $ 9,500
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 4,500
APA is requesting funds to help individuals obtain brand-name medications at no cost, assisting them
in protecting their health and well-being. By accessing prescription programs, they can retain scarce
resources for basic human needs such as food and shelter. APA serves low and moderate income
children, adults, families, the disabled and the elderly; including the uninsured, under-insured,
unemployed, underemployed, farm worker, homeless persons, working poor and other
disenfranchised communities.
2. SLO COUNTY AIDS SUPPORT NETWORK (ASN): HOMELESS PREVENTION AND
SUPPORTIVE HOUSING PROGRAM
2013 Grant Award $ 4,000
2014 Grant Request $ 6,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 6,000
ASN is requesting funds for the AIDS Homeless Prevention and Supportive Housing Program. ASN
is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals living with HIV disease and AIDS, while also
providing support for their families, friends and loved ones. ASN provides unique and innovative
education and prevention interventions to reduce HIV transmission. The primary goal of ASN’s
Supportive Housing Program is to provide affordable, supportive housing specifically designed to
allow persons living with AIDS to remain as independent as possible during the course of their illness
while continuing to reside in SLO.
3. SLO COUNTY AIDS SUPPORT NETWORK (ASN): HEPATITIS C PROJECT (SLOHPC)
2013 Grant Award $ 2,000
2014 Grant Request $ 5,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 5,000
ASN is requesting funds for the Hepatitis C Project, Benefits Counseling. The SLOHPC Task Force was
formed as a community based grassroots effort to initiate the fight against Hepatitis C. The SLOHPC
Project has been delivering essential services that provide persons living with Hepatitis C increased
access to medical care and improvements in quality of life by providing outreach, education, health and
benefits counseling, and linkages to resources in the community. Grant funds will ensure that the
SLOHCP Benefits Counselor will continue to be able to provide assistance in accessing appropriate
medical care and supportive services.
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4. ALPHA PREGNANCY AND PARENTING SUPPORT: EMERGENCY BABY FOOD AND
FORMULA
2013 Grant Award $ 3,000
2014 Grant Request $ 4,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 3,000
Alpha Pregnancy and Parenting Support is requesting funds to provide supplemental and emergency
baby food and formula for families in SLO. Alpha is often the final resource for struggling families who
need baby food and formula at a moments notice. Once these families have exhausted every other
resource, they come to Alpha. Support includes maternity and infant clothing, diapers, cribs, car seats
and other infant equipment. Alpha also supplies food for children up to the age of five, who are at
nutritional risk.
5. ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION : FAMILY SERVICES PROGRAM
2013 Grant Award $ 4,000
2014 Grant Request $ 10,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 2,500
The Alzheimer’s Association is requesting funds to provide education and training to Alzheimer’s
patients, their caregivers and the community at large. Training includes emotional support groups and
methods of caregiving. There is extensive collaboration with other healthcare and senior organizations
to provide outreach and build awareness.
6. ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF SLO COUNTY: OPERATION SCHOOL BELL (OSB)
2013 Grant Award $ 4,000
2014 Grant Request $ 8,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 2,500
Assistance League is requesting funding to provide new, school appropriate clothing to children in
need in grades K through 6. The vision of Operation School Bell is that children will get the maximum
benefit from their educational experience if they feel good about themselves and their appearance. In
addition, it provides relief to families who are having difficulty providing their children with basic needs.
7. BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF SLO COUNTY: YOUTH MENTORING
2013 Grant Award $ 4,000
2014 Grant Request $ 7,500
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 3,000
Big Brothers Big Sisters is requesting funds to provide targeted and careful volunteer recruiting,
screening and matching, as well as ongoing support for volunteers, children and families to insure
child safety and successful long term relationships. The grant will help Big Brothers Big Sisters
finance the overall mission of the organization: To help children of SLO County reach their full
potential through professionally supported one-to-one mentor relationships.
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8. CAMP FIRE CENTRAL COAST OF CALIFORNIA: TEENS-IN-ACTION YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
2013 Grant Award $ 0
2014 Grant Request $ 3,250
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 1,500
Camp Fire Central Coast of California is requesting funds to expand its after-school youth
development clubs through an additional Youth Development Specialist to establish after school sites
for the Teens-in-action programing. They wish to expand their program to middle and senior high
school students.
9. COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES OF SLO COUNTY: CASA ADVOCACY
2013 Grant Award $ 6,000
2014 Grant Request $ 8,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 8,000
CASA is requesting funds to help the program with recruiting, screening, training, and supervision of
community volunteers to advocate for children under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court due to child
abuse and neglect. CASA advocates for the best interests of abused and neglected children within
the court system.
10. COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP OF SLO COUNTY (CAPSLO): FORTY WONDERFUL
PROGRAM
2013 Grant Award $ 3,000
2014 Grant Request $ 4,500
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 2,500
CAPSLO’s Forty Wonderful Project is requesting funds to improve access to medical services,
promote early detection and intervention of chronic diseases, and reduce mortality for low-income
women, aged 40 and older. Early detection of life-threatening cancer is one of their highest priorities.
11. COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP OF SLO COUNTY (CAPSLO): ADULT WELLNESS AND
PREVENTION SCREENING
2013 Grant Award $ 5,000
2014 Grant Request $ 6,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 4,500
CAPSLO’s Senior Health Screening Program is requesting funds to provide low-income adults, 40
years and over, residing in the City of SLO with free, professional, mobile health education and
screening services in a familiar environment. By bringing services directly to this population, the
program ensures that their health is checked regularly and new conditions are detected early. The
program is uniquely able to reach those who have limited access to transportation or who have other
difficulties accessing medical care due to language barriers; disability; lack of primary care physician;
inability to afford such services’ or reluctance to talk to a doctor about health concerns or issues.
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12. COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP OF SLO COUNTY (CAPSLO): CASE MANAGEMENT
HOMELESS PREVENTION/STABLE HOUSING
2013 Grant Award $ 8,000
2014 Grant Request $ 10,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 3,000
CAPSLO’s Case Management Homeless Prevention/Stable Housing Project is requesting funds to
provide short-term rental assistance, mortgage payment, or other financial assistance to families
threatened with eviction. It also assists households in securing housing by providing them with
financial assistance for rent and/or security deposit. In addition to financial assistance, households
meet with a case manager to receive financial education and counseling.
13. COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTER: MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING AND REFERRAL
SERVICES FOR THE ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED AND UNINSURED
2013 Grant Award $ 4,500
2014 Grant Request $ 5,625
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 5,000
Community Counseling Center is requesting funds to cover short-term, professional counseling for
those who have a low income and no insurance. Professional therapists volunteer their services for
clients suffering from depression, grief, anxiety and other problems that are barriers to their ability to
function as productive members of the community.
14. FOOD BANK COALITION OF SLO COUNTY: SENIOR BROWN BAG/ HARVEST BAG
2013 Grant Award $ 10,000
2014 Grant Request $ 15,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 12,400
The Food Bank Coalition is requesting funds to acquire and distribute low-cost and free food to
distribution sites throughout SLO County. The objectives of the distributions are to supplement food
available to low-income residents, regularly contribute to their nutritional intake, and to lessen the
impact of food purchases on the limited financial resources.
15. LITERACY COUNCIL FOR SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $ 6,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 3,500
The Literacy Council is requesting funds to assist adult learners and their families in the
development of English language skills. Funding would allow for the program to continue
operating at the two learning centers which are both in need of new tutors. The programs are
highly individualized to better assist the people.
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16. NOOR FOUNDATION: SLO NOOR CLINIC – HEALTHCARE FOR THE UNINSURED
2013 Grant Award $ 6,500
2014 Grant Request $ 9,500
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 9,500
The Noor Foundation is requesting funds to provide the underserved and disadvantaged of SLO
County with free access to quality acute, non-emergent care they deserve regardless of race,
ethnicity, religion, immigration or socioeconomic status. The clinic provides basic primary care,
physical exams for disease prevention and screening, and on-going medical supervision of adults with
acute and chronic illnesses.
17. ONE COOL EARTH: GARDEN MATCHMAKING
2013 Grant Award $ 3,000
2014 Grant Request $ 3,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 1,500
One Cool Earth is requesting funds to support the Garden Matchmaking program. Garden
Matchmaking connects landless gardeners with landowners that are willing to share. More than often,
this creates a bond between those who cannot afford land with physically disabled or elderly persons
who have land but may not be able to garden alone. Produce is allocated on a case by case basis,
but gardeners are encouraged to donate excess to the Food Bank. Funding will offset water costs,
liability insurance and staff coordination of the program.
18. PARTNERSHIP FOR THE CHILDREN OF SAN LUIS OBISPO: TOLOSA CHILDREN’S DENTAL
CENTER
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $ 3,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 3,000
Funding will help the program to expand pediatric dental services for low-income families in
the central region of the county. This program will allow for underserved children to have
access to dental care.
19. PEOPLE’S SELF-HELP HOUSING: HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION AND SUPPORTIVE
HOUSING SERVICES
2013 Grant Award $ 5,000
2014 Grant Request $ 10,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 8,000
People’s Self-Help Housing is requesting funds to provide affordable housing and programs leading to
self-sufficiency for low income families, seniors and other special needs groups. Funding will help
individuals and families find permanent affordable housing, help them stabilize during the transition,
and prevent homelessness for households at risk of losing shelter.
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20. RISE SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY: SEXUAL ASSAULT AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
SERVICES
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $ 7,500
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 6,000
RISE is requesting funds to serve victims of intimate partner violence and sexual abuse, as well as
their loved ones, with crisis intervention, case management, education, counseling and advocacy.
RISE was formed in 2013 as a result of a merger between the North County Women’s Shelter and
the Sexual Assault Recovery and Prevention center.
21. SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM OF SLO COUNTY: SERVING HOT LUNCHES TO SENIORS
COUNTY-WIDE
2013 Grant Award $ 7,000
2014 Grant Request $ 10,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 7,000
The Senior Nutrition Program of SLO County is requesting funds to serve hot noon-time meals to
persons 60 years and older free of charge. A small donation is requested, but no one is denied a
meal based on their ability to donate. The GIA funding will help defray the high cost of food.
22. SLO COUNTY YMCA: AFTER-SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS: FINANCIAL
ASSISTANCE FOR DAY CAMP
2013 Grant Award $ 2,900
2014 Grant Request $ 3,500
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 2,000
The SLO County YMCA is requesting funds to provide out of school day camps during school breaks.
Funding would go towards providing financial assistance to children and families for better access to
the programs. The camps provide a safe and enriching environment for children.
23. SLO LEGAL ALTERNATIVES CORPORATION: SENIOR LEGAL SERVICES PROJECT
2013 Grant Award $ 1,500
2014 Grant Request $ 2,500
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 2,000
The Senior Legal Services Project is requesting funds to help provide free legal assistance to the
senior population. Senior Legal Services Project provides services countywide, as well as, an office
in SLO. The project focuses on the needs of low-income and/or isolated seniors, including housing,
income, and the prevention of elder abuse.
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24. SLO SYRINGE EXCHANGE PROGRAM/OVERDOSE PREVENTION: PREVENTION OF BLOOD
BORNE INFECTIONS AND DRUG OVERDOSE
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $ 5,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 1,500
SLO Syringe Exchange is requesting funds to reduce and prevent blood borne infections among
injection drug users. This program also allows for the provision of overdose prevention materials.
Funding would allow them to buy the sterile injection supplies that are needed to keep up with the
current supply distribution levels.
25. SPECIAL OLYMPICS OF SLO COUNTY: SPECIAL OLYMPICS PROGRAMS
2013 Grant Award $ 1,500
2014 Grant Request $ 1,500
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 1,500
The Special Olympics of SLO County is requesting funds to empower people with intellectual
disabilities to realize their full potential and develop their skills though year-round sports training and
competition. Athletes receive weekly sports instruction from coaches during the season and teams
attend competitions to showcase their skills. No one is ever turned away because of his/her disability
and teams are formed by age and ability level to create a positive experience for everyone.
26. TRANSITIONAL FOOD AND SHELTER, INC.: TEMPORARY, EMERGENCY SHELTER FOR THE
MEDICALLY FRAGILE HOMELESS
2013 Grant Award $ 2,500
2014 Grant Request $ 10,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 10,000
Transitional Food and Shelter, Inc. is requesting funds to pay rent on apartments and motel rooms for
temporary use by the medically fragile and/or disabled homeless who require overnight shelter.
Clients are prescreened and referred by a hospital following their release or by social service agencies.
27. TRANSITIONS-MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION: GROWING GROUNDS FARM
2013 Grant Award $ 2,500
2014 Grant Request $ 4,500
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 2,500
Transitions-Mental Health Association is requesting funds to manage the Growing Grounds Farm
which provides paid, competitive therapeutic work to SLO County residents in a variety of work
settings including planting and harvesting field crops, nursery propagation, cultivation, landscape,
janitorial maintenance, product delivery, lettuce washing, accounting, and clerical support.
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28. UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY: RAISED BOXES AT THE RANCH
2013 Grant Award $ 1,000
2014 Grant Request $ 2,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 1,000
United Cerebral Palsy is requesting funds to purchase the lumber to build raised planter boxes at their
Ranch. The Ranch is a place where people with developmental disabilities can work, grow vegetables
and then sell them to the public. The raised planter boxes will allow workers in wheelchairs to participate.
29. UNITED WAY OF SLO COUNTY: 211 SLO COUNTY
2013 Grant Award $ 3,500
2014 Grant Request $ 4,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 3,500
United Way of SLO County is requesting funds for 211 SLO County, which is a free, confidential 24-hour
call center that provides information and referrals to health and human service programs. Services
include medical and mental health referrals, counseling, legal or financial assistance can call 211 SLO
County for information and referrals in their time of need.
30. WOMEN’S SHELTER PROGRAM OF SLO COUNTY (WSP): HOMELESS PREVENTION AND
SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS
2013 Grant Award $ 6,000
2014 Grant Request $ 12,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 8,000
WSP is requesting funds to support the Homeless Prevention and Assistance for Domestic Violence
Victims program. Many domestic violence victims will be unemployed and/or homeless as a result of
the current economic downturn. After clients’ strengths and weaknesses are assessed, they will be
connected with case management services to help obtain the necessary skills to become empowered
and self-sufficient.
ORGANIZATIONS THAT HAVE BEEN DENIED FOR FUNDING:
1. ACHIEVEMENT HOUSE: ADULT DAY PROGRAM
2013 Grant Award $ 2,000
2014 Grant Request $ 7,572
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 0
The Achievement House provides vocational opportunities for individuals with special needs.
Funding would provide for the purchase of IPADS. This would allow for computer-assisted
instruction and it would allow for greater development. This also would give people with disabilities
greater access to technology.
The HRC recommends not funding this grant request. While HRC felt this was a worthwhile
program, they thought it would be a better use of funds to support ongoing programs instead of a
one-time equipment purchase.
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2. CASA SOLANA: HOMELESS BEDS
2013 Grant Award $ 4,500
2014 Grant Request $ 5,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 0
Casa Solana is a residential program for women in recovery from substance abuse problems.
Women seeking services at Casa Solana are asked to pay a monthly fee for program
participation which includes, room, board, program materials, staff support and transportation.
However, many women who come to Casa Solana are homeless and have very limited funds or
no income at all. It is Casa Solana’s policy not to turn anyone away due to lack of funds. This
grant request is to support the beds for these homeless women until they have the ability to
earn regular income.
While the HRC felt this was a worthwhile program, the program would only fund services for a
limited number of clients. Therefore they recommend not funding this program.
3. CHILD DEVELOPMENT RESOURCE CENTER: THERAPEUTIC CLASSROOM
INSTRUCTION/ PARENT EDUCATION
2013 Grant Award $ 8,000
2014 Grant Request $ 10,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 0
The Child Development Center is requesting funds to support their Therapeutic Classroom
Instruction project. The intervention is specifically designed to educate families and children so
they can be successful and functional in life. They serve children and families with the highest
risk of abuse, addiction, mental illness, homelessness, developmental delays, and
incapacitation by providing therapeutic instruction and parenting support.
The HRC recommends not funding this grant request. While the HRC felt this is a worthy
program, they agreed other applicants had more compelling basic needs.
4. COTTAGE REHABILITATION HOSPITAL: COAST CAREGIVER RESOURCE CENTER- SLO
RESPITE
2013 Grant Award $ 2,000
2014 Grant Request $ 5,005
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 0
Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital is requesting funds to provide respite to caregivers of dependent
adults with disabilities or cognitive impairments in San Luis Obispo. Family caregivers are at a
much higher risk for stress related medical and mental health problems than their non-caregiving
peers. The funding for respite care will allow these caregivers to have time off to attend to their own
needs as well as receive family consultation and emotional support services from the Coast
Caregiver Resource Center in San Luis Obispo.
The HRC recommends not funding this grant request. While the HRC felt this was a worthwhile
program, they felt the program already has strong sources of funding and did not want to divert
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funds from struggling agencies.
5. FRIENDS OF HAPITOK: TIGR TRAINING WEEKEND
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $3,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 0
Friends of Hapitok works to help children with communication disabilities from SLO County.
Funding would go towards the training weekend before the camp starts. The training would be
for therapy individual goal re-enforcers that work with the children.
The HRC recommends not funding this grant request. While the HRC felt this was a worthwhile
program, they felt it to be a better use of funds to support ongoing programs versus a one-time
event.
6. HOSPICE PARTNERS INC (WILSHIRE): LATINO OUTREACH PROGRAM
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $8,300
2014 HRC Recommendation $0
Hospice Partners is requesting funds to support a new focus on grief counseling for the Latino
population. They would like to provide culturally-relevant grief support. The services would be
offered in both English and Spanish.
The HRC recommends not funding this grant request. While the HRC felt this was a worthwhile
program, the program would only fund a limited number of City residents.
7. SENIOR VOLUNTEER SERVICES: RETIRED AND SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
(RSVP)
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $3,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $0
RSVP helps to match seniors with agencies they can volunteer. This program encourages
community involvement and allows for seniors to be placed in areas they wish to volunteer. This
program also encourages seniors to stay active. Funding is requested for asbestos abatement,
new tile and carpeting in their office building.
The HRC recommends not funding this grant request. While the HRC felt this was a worthwhile
program, a capital improvement did not rank as a priority alongside other grant requests.
8. SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION COUNCIL (SLO-CAP):
PROMOTES COLLABORATIVE OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $3,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $0
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SLO-CAP works to eliminate the disconnect between health organizations and the underserved
populations of SLO county. This program serves to provide effective communication between
the agencies and community. Funding is requested to hire a lead promotora, to coordinate the
volunteer trainers and develop community outreach opportunities.
The HRC recommends not funding this grant request. While the HRC felt this was a worthwhile
program, they felt the program already has strong sources of funding and did not want to divert
funds from struggling agencies.
9. SLO ALANO CLUB: TRANSITIONAL HOUSING AND MEETING/ EDUCATION ROOM
EXPANSION
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $10,803
2014 HRC Recommendation $0
The SLO Alano Club works to provide a safe, sober, and supportive environment for those in
recover from drug or alcohol addiction. The funding would help to finish the remodel on the new
sober living house. The funding would provide for the furnishings, literature, and some
assistance with related operating expenses.
The HRC recommends not funding this grant request. While the HRC felt this was a worthwhile
program, they felt the program already has strong sources of funding and did not want to divert
funds from struggling agencies.
10. WILSHIRE COMMUNITY SERVICES: CARING CALLERS
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $ 5,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 0
Wilshire Community Services is requesting funds to expand and enhance the social activities of
senior residents. Caring callers make free weekly in-home visits to homebound older persons.
This program is designed to stimulate, expand and enhance the social activities of senior
citizens who are frail, homebound and at-risk.
The HRC recommends not funding this grant request. While the HRC felt this is a worthy program,
they felt the program already has strong sources of funding and other applicants had more
compelling basic needs.
11. WILSHIRE COMMUNITY SERVICES: GOOD NEIGHBOR PROGRAM
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $ 5,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 0
The good neighbor program provides supportive in-home services to seniors and adults with
disabilities throughout the San Luis Obispo County. This program provides transportation as
needed, light housekeeping, minor home repairs, yard work and more. Volunteers are “hand-
matched” with a person in need to create the best fit. Funding is requested to pay a part time
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services coordinator to match volunteers with clients.
The HRC recommends not funding this grant request. While the HRC felt this is a worthy
program, they felt the program already has strong sources of funding and other applicants had
more compelling basic needs.
12. WILSHIRE COMMUNITY SERVICES: SENIOR PEER COUNSELING
2013 Grant Award N/A
2014 Grant Request $ 5,000
2014 HRC Recommendation $ 0
Senior Peer Counseling is a mental health program providing counseling and supportive
services to those over 60 that are experiencing emotional distress. Professionally trained peer
volunteers offer these services in the client’s residence, free of charge. Funding would go
toward volunteer support and training.
The HRC recommends not funding this grant request. While the HRC felt this is a worthy
program, they felt the program already has strong sources of funding and other agencies
provide similar services.
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HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION (HRC)
MINUTES REGULAR MEETING
April 2, 2014
5:00 p.m.
990 Palm St – Council Hearing Room
CALL TO ORDER: 5:00 PM
PRESENT: Commissioners: Robert Clayton, Janet Pierucci, Michelle Tasseff, Ronald
Tilley
ABSENT: Ivan Simon, Hillary Trout
STAFF
PRESENT: Greg Zocher, Human Resources Manager
OATHS OF
OFFICE: GENE STROHL AND MICHELLE TASSEFF (MEJIA)
Strohl and Tasseff were sworn in by City Clerk Mejia. Commissioners agreed by consensus
that Commissioner Pierucci Chair the meeting.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES:
ACTION: Moved by Tilley/Clayton to approve the minutes of March 5, 2014 as
submitted; motion carried 5:0.
______________________________________________________________
PUBLIC COMMENT
No public comment.
BUSINESS ITEMS
Item 1. ELECT CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON (TROUT)
Commissioners agreed by consensus to move this item to the next meeting on May 7th.
Item 2. PRELIMINARY REVIEW 2014-2015 GRANTS-IN-AID SUBCOMMITTEE
RECOMMENDATIONS (CLAYTON/TASSEFF/TILLEY)
Attachment 2
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The sub-committee presented preliminary recommendations and requested input from the
full commission. Commissioners discussed and agreed by consensus to changes in
recommendations as follows:
Food Bank Coalition: Senior Brown Bag/Harvest Bag Distribution, increase from $12,000
to $12,400.
Literacy Council: The Literacy Program, increase from $2500 to $3500.
Noor Foundation: SLO Noor Clinic Healthcare for the Uninsured, increased from $7500 to
$9500.
RISE: Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Services, recommend $6000.
Item 3. REVIEW 2013-2014 GRANTS-IN-AID (GIA) MID-YEAR REPORTS
(TROUT)
Commissioner Clayton reported on Community Counseling Center: Affordable Therapy for
Low Income and Uninsured Clients; and Gay and Lesbian Alliance: GALA Q Youth
Project.
Commissioner Tilley reported on CAPSLO: Case Management Homeless Prevention.
Commissioner Pierucci reported on Transitions-Mental Health Association: Growing
Grounds Farm
Item 4. RELEASE 4th QUARTER MAXINE LEWIS MEMORIAL SHELTER FUNDS
(TROUT)
Moved by Tilley/Clayton to release the funds; motion carried 5:0.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
There being no further business to come before the HRC, Pierucci adjourned the HRC
meeting at 7:05 p.m. to the regular meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 7th at 5:00 p.m.
in the Council Chambers at 990 Palm St.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Zocher,
Human Resources Manager
Attachment 2
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HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION (HRC)
MINUTES REGULAR MEETING
May 7, 2014
5:00 p.m.
990 Palm St – Council Hearing Room
CALL TO ORDER: 5:00 PM
PRESENT: Commissioners: Robert Clayton, Ivan Simon, Gene Strohl, Michelle Tasseff,
Ronald Tilley
ABSENT: Commissioner: Janet Pierucci
STAFF
PRESENT: Greg Zocher, Human Resources Manager; Monica Irons, Human Resources
Director
Commissioners agreed by consensus that Commissioner Tilley Chair the meeting until new
Chair and Vice Chair elected.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES:
ACTION: Moved by Clayton/Tasseff to approve the minutes of April 2, 2014 as
submitted; motion carried 5:0.
______________________________________________________________
PUBLIC COMMENT
Representatives from 21 non-profit agencies spoke regarding the Grants in Aid funding
recommendations.
BUSINESS ITEMS
Item 1. ELECT CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON (PIERUCCI)
Moved by Clayton/Simon to elect Tilley as chairperson; motion carried 5:0.
Moved by Tilley/Simon to elect Tasseff as vice-chairperson; motion carried 5:0.
Item 2. 2014-2015 GRANTS-IN-AID RECOMMENDATIONS (CLAYTON)
Commission Clayton, Simon, Tilley and Tasseff discussed the process for arriving at the
recommendations and expressed appreciation for the work being done in the community.
Attachment 3
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Moved by Simon/Clayton to approve the funding recommendations as submitted: motion
carried 5:0.
Item 3. REVIEW 3RD QUARTER 2013-2014 MAXINE LEWIS MEMORIAL
SHELTER REPORT (TORRES)
Commissioners received the report.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Commissioner Tasseff – reminded HRC of Homeless Forum on Friday morning, May 9th.
There being no further business to come before the HRC, Tilley adjourned the HRC
meeting at 7:40 p.m. to the regular meeting scheduled for Wednesday, June 4, 2014 at
5:00 p.m. in the Council Hearing Room at 990 Palm St.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Zocher,
Human Resources Manager
Attachment 3
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